KUALA LUMPUR — China’s maritime assets have not been aggressive towards Malaysia, Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari told the Dewan Rakyat today when answering concerns over hostilities in the South China Sea.
Adly (PH-Alor Gajah), was responding to a question by Datuk Seri Jalaluddin Alias (BN-Jelebu) regarding Malaysia’s defence readiness in the South China Sea following reports of Chinese ships encroaching into the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) off the coast of Sarawak.
The deputy minister clarified that China only operates coast guard vessels in the South China Sea and not navy warships, adding that the maritime area remains safe and under control.
“Although the presence of Chinese ships has caused a polemic, there have been no aggressive actions (against Malaysia), unlike what has happened to the Philippines and Vietnam.
“Our ability to respond to any threats remains at an optimum level.
“The South Chinese Sea remains free and open to the maritime community,” Adly told the Dewan Rakyat.
Malaysia’s priority in the South China Sea to ensure maritime activities there can continue in safety, he added.
Given this priority, Adly said Malaysia’s Defence Ministry does not want to “appear on the offensive” towards the Chinese coast guard, as Malaysia also has neutral geopolitical stance.
To a supplementary question on Chinese navy vessels docking in Penang, Adly explained that Malaysia has welcomed military ships from other nations, adding that these visits are usually beneficial to Malaysia.
Adly’s response comes as Sabah leaders expressed concern over Malaysia enhancing maritime cooperation with China following a bilateral meeting between Putrajaya and Beijing last week in Langkawi.
Former Sabah deputy chief minister Datuk Seri Wilfred Madius Tangau told Scoop last week that any bilateral agreement must not compromise the state’s claims to the continental shelf, while Sabah deputy chief minister Datuk Jeffrey Kitingan hoped that Putrajaya would include the state government in any discussions concerning the state’s territory.
Previously, the Malaysian National Security Council (MKN) confirmed that bilateral talks with China were held on October 16 in Langkawi.
In a statement last week, MKN confirmed that Putrajaya and Beijing agreed to further strengthen practical maritime cooperation. – October 21, 2024